Hotel review international

The Murray, Hong Kong

LOCATION

The hotel is in Central, on Hong Kong Island. It is between Garden Road and Cotton Tree Drive, with covered overpasses ensuring easy walking access in every direction.

THE PLACE

It’s a stunner. As part of the Hong Kong Government’s ‘Conserving Central’ initiative, this new hotel has taken over the stately Murray Building, a former government office tower built in 1969. They’ve gone all out, highlighting the bold exterior arches as an architectural feature, bedecking the place in gold trim and creating a sense of space and openness – an unexpected accomplishment in such a built-up part of the city.

ROOMS

They’re fittingly spacious and luxurious with sleek grey and black furnishings softened by gold trims, colourful throw cushions and reflective surfaces. A desk and mini-bar recess is backed by expansive city, harbour or park views. In the bathroom, there are marble floors, gold taps and Grown Alchemist bath products. Big glass walls with a frosting option allow guests to take a dip in the half-shell bath with or without city views. The toilet has a Japanese seat.

FOOD AND DRINK

The Murray Lane cocktail bar in the lobby has bench seats, pop art and snazzy bartenders. The Garden Lounge, where breakfast is served, is in an airy room surrounded by floor-to-ceiling glass walls that draw the garden inside. Tai Pan is a modern European restaurant. Popinjays, a rooftop bar and eatery, and the previously established Michelin-starred Cantonese restaurant, Guo Fu Lou, will open later this year.

WHAT GUES TS LIKE

“The level of service is outstanding (the inroom guest guide even had detailed directions for nearby hikes).” – TripAdvisor “Visitors to Hong Kong must try the new best hotel in Central. The Murray is in soft launch mode with full opening mid year.” – Expedia